How to Spot an Authentic Italian Restaurant — and Why Venere is the Real Deal

What Does “Authentic” Really Mean in Italian Cuisine?

It’s not about the name, the décor, or how many Italian flags are on the wall. Authenticity in Italian dining comes down to four key things:



1. Traditional Recipes Passed Down Through Generations
2. High-Quality, Fresh Ingredients
3. Simplicity with Precision
4. Consistency in Execution and Service

Let’s take a closer look at each factor—and see how Venere Restaurant delivers on every one of them.

1. Traditional Recipes — Not Trendy Interpretations

One of the clearest signs of an authentic Italian restaurant is the use of time-honored recipes. Italian cuisine is regional, rooted in family tradition, and doesn’t need reinvention.

Venere Restaurant has been family-owned and operated since 1979. The recipes used in their kitchen come straight from the founders—most notably Angelo Graziosi—and have stood the test of time for over 45 years.

You won’t find over-the-top fusion gimmicks or “Americanized” menu fillers here. What you’ll find instead:

• Spaghetti and Meatballs made the old-fashioned way
• Chicken Parmigiana that’s crisp yet tender
• Veal Scaloppine with house-made sauce
• Pastas with perfectly balanced, not overloaded, ingredients

You can view Venere’s full menu and order online to explore more of these classics.

2. Fresh, Quality Ingredients Over Quantity

Authentic Italian food isn’t about piling on sauces or drowning pasta in cheese—it’s about letting a few excellent ingredients shine.

Venere’s kitchen emphasizes:

• Fresh produce sourced locally
• High-quality meats
• Imported cheeses and oils when appropriate
• Nothing pre-made, frozen, or generic

Many dishes include just a few ingredients, but they’re thoughtfully selected and carefully prepared. For example, their Large Gorgonzola Salad pairs gorgonzola with mesclun greens, walnuts, and dried cranberries—elevated, simple, and fresh.

Venere also offers an affordable lunch menu that doesn’t compromise on quality. You can see their lunch specials here, including dishes that come with a fresh house salad.

3. Simplicity Done Right: Italian Cuisine Doesn’t Need a Makeover

A sure red flag? Menus packed with overly complex “Italian-inspired” dishes that try too hard. Authentic Italian food relies on technique, not tricks.

Venere sticks to what works and focuses on executing it perfectly:

• The Italian Egg Rolls—a fan favorite—are made with sausage, ricotta, and pepperoni, then lightly fried. Unique, but still grounded in Italian flavor profiles.
• The Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and sun-dried tomatoes are a nod to Southern Italian cooking—bitter, sweet, and umami in one satisfying bite.

Nothing is overdone or trend-chasing. Venere’s simplicity is what keeps customers coming back week after week, year after year.

4. Consistency in Food and Service

Authenticity is more than just food. It’s also the consistency and care you experience every time you walk through the door.

Here’s what guests frequently say about their visits to Venere:

“It feels like the neighborhood spot for families and date nights.”
— Jake S.

“The food was fantastic, the atmosphere was comfortable while being classy.”
— Ken N.

“The staff was accommodating and welcoming… the flavors were incredible.”
— Nicole S.

“Every bite feels like a trip to Italy.”
— Michaela G.

These reviews don’t just highlight great food—they spotlight the atmosphere, staff, and overall reliability of Venere Restaurant.

You can book a reservation online or call for special requests at (516) 333-2332.

Catering, Takeout, and Events — Authenticity Anywhere You Need It

Venere doesn’t limit itself to dine-in experiences. One of the reasons it stands out as the best Italian restaurant in Westbury is its reliable and consistent takeout and catering services.

Whether you’re:

• Hosting a baptism, graduation, or birthday
• Planning a business lunch
• Feeding the family on a weeknight

You can count on Venere to deliver hot, fresh food—on time, every time.

Just ask Karla, a recent catering customer:

“Everything was so delicious, people went back for seconds and thirds, and asked us where we ordered from.”

Explore Venere’s catering and takeout menu to place your next order.

Venere’s Place in the Westbury Community

Authentic restaurants don’t just serve food—they become part of the community. Venere has been doing that for over 45 years.

From welcoming returning guests to serving multiple generations of families, it’s clear that Venere isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a trusted name in Westbury.

This local connection, combined with excellent food and friendly service, is what elevates Venere above other Italian restaurants in the area.

Why Venere Restaurant is the Best Italian Restaurant in Westbury

To recap, here’s why Venere Restaurant is your best bet for a truly authentic Italian dining experience in Westbury:

✅ Family-owned since 1979
✅ Traditional recipes, no shortcuts
✅ High-quality, fresh ingredients
✅ Consistent service and atmosphere
✅ Loyal local following with rave reviews
✅ Full-service catering, takeout, and dine-in

When you want the real thing—not a watered-down version—Venere delivers.

Make a reservation or stop by today to see why locals call it the best Italian restaurant in Westbury.

👉 Reserve your table now or place an order online.